The Lekki axis in Lagos is not just about beaches, gated residential estates, and perennial, chest-high floods (depends on how tall you are), it is fast becoming Lagos’ newest amala hub, blending the traditional flavours with modern vibes. Here are five bukas elevating this unique swallow on the peninsula:

ÀBÈKÉ Rooftop, Lekki Phase 1

A fresh take on abula culture, ÀBÈKÉ offers a rooftop amala experience with style. Think cane furniture, earthy tones, and insta-ready palm daylight lighting. They pair abula platter (amala, gbegiri, ewedu) with native décor, and you have got a refined yet rooted meal. Perfect aesthetics for foodies and content creators.

Amala Sky, Lekki phase 1

Tucked into a modest corner of Lekki but buzzing with amala energy, Amala Sky is beloved for its smoky flavoured amala and thick gbegiri. No frills, no pretence, just good food served fast. The restaurant serves varieties of fresh, assorted meats and the customer flow tells you all you need to know: People return. This joint gets the job done and at an affordable price that keeps both belly and does not drain your pocket.

Labule, Admiralty Road, Lekki Phase 1.

Known for its ultra-smooth piping-hot amala, Labule earns major points with consistency. It is   lump-free, soft and served with traditional care. Their efo riro is a must- try, and the calm, rustic interior lets you enjoy your meal in peace. For new comers to amala culture, Labule is a solid, trustworthy intro.

Amala 4 Real, Castle Rock Avenue, Lekki

True to its name, Amala 4 Real delivers authentic, homestyle amala in the Jakande area. While it is still local secret and high foot traffic, the buka style and pricing speak volume. Think soft amala with rich, peppery gbegiri and ewedu that coats your fingers (or cutlery) with pride. Come for the meal, stay for the soft life.

Yakoyo Abula Joint, Lekki Phase 1

An edition of well-loved Yakoyo brand, this lekki branch blends class and tradition. Spacious, clean, and consistently praised, the restaurant serves generous amala with assorted proteins and soups with a of mama’s pot. It is the go-to for many Lekki residents looking for that mainland authenticity without leaving the island.

Why Lekki amala scene is worth the hype

The experience in these amala joints balances tradition and trend, where rooftop restaurants like ÀBÈKÉ meet more humble but flavour-packed bukas like Amala Sky. The focus is not on fancy décor or over-the-top presentation, but on what truly matters: the texture, heat, and depth of flavour in every bite.

Most solid plates could be sold for less than ₦5,000, proving you do not have to break the bank to get premium comfort food. Whether you are eating under soft lights or looking at the sky, the warmth of the environment and the heartiness of the food stay consistent. Lekki’s amala scene is beginning to chart its own rhythm.

Also Read: Amala, the legendary Yoruba meal, is finding new connoisseurs through e-commerce

Pro tips for your amala hunt

Timing is everything. Lunch hours, especially between 12pm and 3pm, can get chaotic. Go early or call ahead if possible. Also, do not be shy to ask for combinations. Many locals swear by mixing gbegiri with ewedu and a dash of fiery ata dindin for the full flavour punch. Most of these bukas operate a cash-and-transfer-only policy, so have both options ready.

Finally, go with an open mind. Some of the best meals come from the most unexpected corners; whether it is a corner joint behind a car wash or a rooftop canteen that only locals know.

Meiza Nigeria